Episodit

  • In this captivating episode of Put Em On The Couch, we explore how disgust shapes our moral decisions and political beliefs. Recorded on Friday the 13th, we dive into the unsettling moments from the latest presidential debate between Trump and Harris, examining how these emotional reactions reveal deeper truths about our political psychology.

    Join us as we dissect the impact of disgust on voting behavior and political orientation. We’ll explore the biology of emotion, the psychology behind moral judgments, and the ways in which disgust influences our perceptions of political debates and candidates.

    Discover why emotions like disgust are crucial in understanding political ideologies and how factors such as family influence and social dynamics come into play. We’ll also discuss the five prongs of morality and how disgust sensitivity connects to conservative viewpoints.

    Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that bridges the gap between emotions and politics, and gain insights into how primal feelings like disgust drive our moral and political choices.

    Subscribe, listen, and share your thoughts on how disgust influences our decisions on Put Em On The Couch!

  • Title: Power on the Couch: Unpacking Influence, Wealth, and Responsibility

    Description: In this episode of Put Em On The Couch, hosts Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu dissect the multifaceted nature of power. From understanding how influence shapes behavior and society to exploring the effects of wealth on honesty, this episode covers it all. We compare Machiavellian tactics with cooperative strategies, delve into historical and modern perspectives on power, and discuss the role of gossip in holding leaders accountable. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the dynamics of power and its implications for personal and societal responsibility.

    Timestamps:

    1:53 – Defining Power4:30 – Different Forms of Power8:00 – Who Seeks Power? Insights from Research11:00 – Wealth and Its Impact on Behavior17:00 – Power Dynamics and Success Attribution20:00 – Benefits and Drawbacks of Power25:00 – The Role of Soft Power in Diplomacy33:00 – Power Through History45:00 – Gossip as a Check on Power48:00 – Imagining Immense Power52:00 – The Desire for Power57:00 – Political Power and Democracy61:00 – The Influence of Modern Internet Personalities65:00 – Responsibility and Voting

    Call to Action:

    If you enjoyed this episode of Put Em On The Couch, don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave us a review on Apple, Podbean, and/or Spotify. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners! For updates on new episodes and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on [social media platforms, e.g., Twitter, Instagram, Facebook]. Have questions or topics you’d like us to cover? Reach out to us at [email protected]

    Thanks for tuning in!

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  • Episode 66: You Know What Is WEIRD? | Put Em On The Couch Podcast

    Welcome to the 66th episode of Put Em On The Couch! In this engaging installment, hosts Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu explore the concept of "weird" through four distinct psychological lenses, providing a comprehensive analysis of what makes something appear strange or out of the ordinary.

    We start with a thought-provoking clip from Gov. Tim Waltz and J.D. Vance using "weird" to critique political ideas and opponents. How does the term shape our understanding and perception of various topics?

    Jason and Nelson delve into four key perspectives on what defines "weird":

    Understanding: Does the behavior or idea challenge our comprehension, making it appear "weird" simply because it is not easily understood?Norm Violation: Does the behavior or concept violate societal or cultural norms, leading us to label it as "weird"?Moral Violations: Does the behavior breach moral or legal standards, contributing to its classification as "weird"?Statistical Uniqueness: Is the behavior statistically rare or deviates from the norm, which might make it seem "weird" in comparison to the average?

    The episode also explores real-world examples, including RFK’s unusual fascination with roadkill and the effects of brain parasites on behavior. Insights from Dan Dennett on microorganisms that influence the brain provide an intriguing addition to our discussion.

    Additionally, we examine the concept of W.E.I.R.D. (Western, Educated, Industrial, Rich, Democratic) and its impact on social science and psychology. How does this framework influence our understanding and categorization of "weird" behaviors?

    Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to Put Em On The Couch for more in-depth explorations of complex topics! If you found this episode insightful, please leave us a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it helps us reach more curious listeners. Follow us on social media and join the conversation!

    Keywords: weirdness, psychological lenses, political rhetoric, clinical psychology, James Joyce, brain parasites, RFK, Dan Dennett, W.E.I.R.D., social science, human behavior, understanding norms, moral violations, statistical uniqueness

    Hashtags: #Weirdness #PsychologicalLenses #PoliticalRhetoric #ClinicalPsychology #JamesJoyce #BrainParasites #RFK #DanDennett #WEIRD #SocialScience #HumanBehavior

  • In this episode of Put Em On The Couch, titled "Teachers Unite! A Conversation with Jen Mangrum," host Jason McCoy explores the pressing issues facing public education in North Carolina. With teacher vacancies skyrocketing, morale at an all-time low, and funding falling short, the state's education system is in crisis.

    We’ll dive into the challenges—like dwindling teacher pipelines, stagnant pay, and the struggle to secure necessary resources—while also examining the efforts of advocates like Brian Proffit, VP of the NCAE, who are sounding the alarm on these critical issues. We’ll also discuss the role of state leaders such as Phil Berger and the implications of the Leandro Ruling on the future of public education in the state.

    Our special guest, Dr. Jen Mangrum, a veteran educator and newly appointed leader with the American Federation of Teachers (#AFT), joins us to discuss her bold new role in driving reform. Dr. Mangrum will share her insights on the current state of public education, her mission to support educators, and what actions can be taken to improve the system.

    Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and solutions facing North Carolina’s public schools and hear from a key figure dedicated to making a difference.

    To learn more about the AFT and/or what you can do to support public education, email Jen Mangrum at [email protected] or Jason McCoy at [email protected] and/or visit the AFT website at aft.org

    Keywords & Hashtags: #NCAE #AFT #TeachersUnite #PublicSchools #EducationReform #TeacherSupport #CollectiveBargaining #SchoolChoice #TeacherMorale #NorthCarolinaEducation #RandiWeingarten #EducationCrisis #TeacherVacancies #TeacherPay #EducationAdvocacy #JenMangrum #EducationEquity #RedForEd #TeacherUnion #PublicEducation #PhilBerger #LeandroRuling

  • Description:

    Why does coming in second often feel worse than finishing third? In this episode, we dive into the "Silver Medal Paradox," exploring why silver medalists sometimes experience more regret than bronze winners. We examine how this psychological phenomenon, tied to #ProspectTheory and #LossAversion, affects not just Olympic athletes but also talent show contestants, backup quarterbacks, and even social contexts like dating.

    From exploring historical examples and famous runner-up stories to analyzing reality TV and sports, we uncover why being "almost the best" can feel like a bigger letdown. We also discuss how these insights apply to everyday life, from job interviews to romantic relationships. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of how second place impacts our emotions and perceptions of success.

    Keywords: #SilverMedalBlues, #SecondPlace, #ProspectTheory, #LossAversion, #RunnerUpRegret, #OlympicAthletes, #TalentContests, #RealityTV, #BackupQuarterbacks, #Dating, #SocialPsychology

    Call to Action:

    Enjoyed this episode? Please like and rate our show on Spotify or Apple Podcasts—it really helps us reach more listeners! Share this episode with friends who might enjoy it, and join the conversation on social media using #PutEmOnTheCouch. We’d love to hear from you—email us at [email protected] to comment, say hello, or send us recommendations for future shows. Your feedback and ideas are always welcome!

  • In this eye-opening episode of Put Em on the Couch, Jason sits down with Dr. Regina Nouhan, a retired plastic surgeon and host of Plastic Surgery Decoded. Together, they unravel "The Paradox of Pretty" and delve into the intricate dance between societal standards and personal desires in the realm of aesthetics.

    Tune in to discover:

    The Paradox of Beauty: What truly defines "pretty"? Explore how our perceptions of beauty can be both captivating and flawed.Plastic Surgery Unveiled: Understand the critical differences between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, and the ethical considerations that guide these practices.Innovations and Insights: From cutting-edge 3D printing to personalized patient care, uncover the latest advancements shaping the future of plastic surgery.Ethical Dilemmas: Learn how plastic surgeons balance personal and societal expectations while upholding professional integrity.

    Whether you're fascinated by the science behind beauty or intrigued by the ethical dimensions of cosmetic procedures, this conversation with Dr. Nouhan offers profound insights and thought-provoking perspectives.

    Don’t miss this enlightening episode! Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you enjoy your podcasts. Share it with friends and family who are curious about the evolving world of plastic surgery and beauty.

  • In this eye-opening episode of Put Em On The Couch, hosts Jason and Nelson tackle the prevalent myth that hard work is the ultimate path to success. "Why Your Best Effort Might Not Be Enough: The Hard Work Myth" questions the assumption that putting in more hours and effort always leads to better results.

    In This Episode:

    The Limits of Hard Work: Discover why relentless effort doesn’t always yield success and explore the concept of “leverage” as an alternative approach.Defining Hard Work: Examine the varying interpretations of hard work and why a universal definition remains elusive.The "Rise and Grind" Fallacy: Analyze the popular mantra of working tirelessly and its potential downsides, including incentivizing unnecessary misery.Success Perspectives: Compare insights from figures like Elon Musk and Warren Buffett on whether hard work alone is the key to success.Beyond Effort: Reflect on the roles of luck, talent, and strategic decisions in achieving success.

    Featured Clips:

    Motivational speaker insightsTED Talks and news segments highlighting key themes

    Join Jason and Nelson as they challenge conventional beliefs about hard work and offer a new perspective on achieving success. If you’re an ambitious professional, entrepreneur, or curious about what truly drives success, this episode will provide thought-provoking insights.

    Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for updates and more discussions!

  • Join us as we delve into the latest political whirlwind! In this episode (61) we analyze the seismic shifts following Trump's unexpected choice of J.D. Vance for Vice President and Biden's pivotal endorsement of Kamala Harris for President. From dissecting the unconventional speakers at the RNC to debating Trump's unwavering persona amidst these developments, we explore what these decisions mean for the upcoming election landscape. Don't miss our insights on the strategies, surprises, and strategic implications shaping the race ahead.

    If you aren't already doing so, please be sure to Follow Put Em On The Couch on Spotify, Apple or most anywhere you listen to podcasts. You can also join the "couch surfering" listenership and supportship by giving us a follow on Facebook.

  • Join us for a compelling exploration of the recent assassination attempt on Trump and its profound impact on American politics. In this episode, we delve into the aftermath of this shocking event, analyzing its implications for political discourse and unity in America. From examining historical parallels to discussing calls for societal cohesion, we navigate the complexities of political violence and its broader ramifications.

    We offer deep insights into the dynamics of political rhetoric amidst heightened tensions, exploring how such events shape public perception and policy discussions. This episode provides a critical examination of Trump's influence on contemporary politics, from divisive rhetoric to real-world consequences, prompting reflection on the state of democracy and civic engagement.

    Discover nuanced perspectives on the role of leadership, the challenges of unity amidst polarization, and the societal responses to political violence. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that aims to illuminate the path forward in an increasingly polarized landscape.

    #TrumpAssasinationattempt #putemonthecouch #unityinAmerica #politicalpolarization #RNC #2024election #JoeBiden #societalimplications #leadershipchallenges #J.D.Vance #HillbillyElegy #turndowntherhetoric #turndownthetemperature

  • "Should President Joe Biden bow out of the 2024 presidential race? Dive into a passionate debate following his debate performance against Donald Trump. Explore opinions on Biden's candidacy, potential successors like Kamala Harris, and implications for democracy. Join the discussion on age-related concerns, cognitive abilities, and the future of Democratic leadership."

    Keywords: President Joe Biden, 2024 presidential race, debate performance, Donald Trump, Kamala Harris, Democratic candidacy, age-related concerns, cognitive abilities, democracy, political debate

  • My cohost has been away for a couple of weeks. On this episode of Put Em On The Couch, we find out where Nelson has been. We'll discuss travel, vacationing and why the two aren't necessarily the same thing. Join us for another lively and edutaining conversation as we put travel - on the Couch!

    #putemonthecouch #jasonmccoy #tanzania #zanzibar #travelchangesyou #whereintheworldhasNelsonbeen

  • In this captivating episode of Put Em On The Couch we are joined by the passionate and insightful Sue Frantz, a veteran psychology educator with over three decades of experience. Sue shares her profound love for psychology, describing it as a "user's manual for life." She delves into the significance of understanding psychology as a fundamental tool for navigating the complexities of human behavior.

    Sue highlights the growing importance of undergraduate education in psychology, noting that "big schools are beginning to believe that undergraduate education is worth caring about." She emphasizes the crucial role of introductory psychology courses, likening them to psychology's "PR program," designed to captivate and inform students about the discipline's broad impact.

    For those aspiring to a career in psychology education, Sue recommends connecting with established professionals and suggests joining the Society for the Teaching of Psychology (STP), an accessible resource through the American Psychological Association, with annual memberships costing around $35.

    In a fascinating analogy, Sue describes psychology as "Volume 1 of the human user's manual," with anatomy and physiology as "Volume 2," underscoring the interconnectedness of these fields in understanding the human experience.

    Tune in to discover the invaluable insights Sue Frantz offers on the transformative power of psychology and the vital role of educators in shaping future generations. Whether you're a psychology enthusiast, a prospective educator, or simply curious about the field, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration.

    #putemonthecouch #SueFrantz #SocietyfortheTeachingofPsychology #MacmillianCommunityBlog #psychasusermanual4life #HighlineCollege #DouglasBernstein #StephenChew #BryanSaville #CharlesStangor #PsychOneConference #AaronRichmond #learningstyles #LillianMollerGilbreth #CharlesLindbergh #Interteaching #EricLandrum





  • Dive into the heart of hustle culture with Jason and Nelson as they unpack the societal obsession with constant activity, all while lounging on the couch. Drawing from candid conversations and research, they dissect the pressures of productivity, questioning its true value in our lives. From challenging the glorification of busyness to exploring the nuances of work-life balance, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on navigating the hustle while prioritizing well-being. Join them for an insightful discussion that sheds light on the complexities of modern living and invites listeners to embrace mindful productivity.
    #putemonthecouch #busyness #hustleculture #deepwork #productiivty #CalNewport #OrganizationalPsychology #JasonMcCoy #riseandgrind #worklifebalance #burnout #hardwork #statusseeking #multitasking



  • Welcome "couch surfers" to another thought-provoking conversation. This time on Put Em on The Couch, we turn our attention to Poverty in America.

    Join us as we engage in an edutaining exploration of this existential scourge and attempt to identify and perhaps unravel some of the most stubborn myths associated with poverty.

    We 'll be delving into topics such as the war on poverty, the perpetuation of poverty by design, and the challenges faced by those marginalized by socioeconomic barriers. Through engaging narratives and insightful analysis, we shed light on the harsh realities that often go unseen, inviting listeners to confront their preconceptions and expand their understanding of this pressing issue.

    Tune in to join the conversation and discover how we can collectively work towards a more equitable future for all.

  • Join us as we celebrate you - the listeners - as well as our 1 year of podcasting. Listen as Nelson and Jason give some very well deserved shout-outs to our listeners and supporters. In this 54th episode, we wax nostalgic about the past year and talk excitedly about what we have in store for year 2.

  • In this 53rd episode of Put Em On The Couch, I have the honor and privilege of sitting down with a living philosophical legend. Dr. David Livingstone Smith is a professor, interdisciplinary philosopher, author, thinker and most importantly, a new friend of the show. Dr. Livingston Smith's most recent book, Making Monsters: The Uncanny Power of Dehumanization, ” was a finalist for the 2023 Nayef Al-Rodhan Prize for Interdisciplinary Philosophy and was awarded the 2023 Joseph B. Gittler Award from the APA. Before that, his 2012 book, Less Than Human: Why We Demean, Enslave and Exterminate Others,” won the 2012 Anisfield-Wolf award for nonfiction.

    David was generous enough to join me on the couch today to discuss one of his oldest and most foundational influences - Sigmund Freud. During this conversation, I will ask about a variety of things related to the life and legacy of this most perplexing man of science. For instance, was Freud enmeshed with his mother? How did Freud die? Why didn't he stick with medicine? Did he really believe psychotherapy was the answer to all psychological ills, and so, so much more.

    Join me as I talk with Dr. David Livingston Smith about a man who's ideas and writings shaped and continue to impact his own writings and thinking.

  • More than Trump or MAGA extremism or political divisiveness, the single greatest threat to our American style Constitutional Democracy - says Political Scientist and Historian, Nelson Beaulieu is the constitution itself.

    Join us as we delve into the heart of America's democratic experiment on this enlightening episode of Put Em On The Couch. Host Jason McCoy and political scientist/historian Nelson Beaulieu embark on a thought-provoking journey through the corridors of power, dissecting the very foundation of our democracy: the Constitution.

    In this educational and entertaining exploration, we uncover the hidden dangers lurking within the framework of the Constitution. From the deliberate ambiguity of its language to the ingenious, albeit controversial, mechanisms such as the Electoral College designed to guard against the tyranny of the majority, we unravel the intricate tapestry of American governance.

    Drawing on insights from history and political theory, we confront the uncomfortable truth that the greatest threat to democracy may not lie in external forces, but rather within the very document intended to safeguard it. With a keen eye on the encroaching powers of the executive branch and the delicate balance between norms and laws, we challenge conventional wisdom and provoke critical reflection on the state of our democracy.

    So tune in as we interrogate the fault lines of American democracy, exploring the tension between populism and constitutionalism, and daring to ask the question: Is the Constitution itself the greatest threat to our democracy?

  • "Dive deep into the multifaceted world of stress with a special milestone episode of 'Under Pressure,' hosted by Nelson Beaulieu and Jason McCoy, the "psych guy". Join us as we celebrate the 50th episode of 'Put Em On The Couch' by uncovering the intricacies of this universal phenomenon.

    Together, Nelson and Jason explore the definition and spectrum of stress, including the surprising dynamics of good, bad, and insufficient stress. From tracing the footsteps of pioneering figures like Hans Selye to examining groundbreaking experiments, each episode offers a unique blend of insight and intrigue.

    Delve into the realm of presidential stress, unraveling how the weight of leadership can visibly impact those who bear its burden. Whether you're seeking a deeper understanding of stress or practical strategies for navigating its challenges, 'Under Pressure' equips you with the knowledge and tools to thrive in an ever-demanding world.

  • "Welcome to the 49th episode of 'Put Em On The Couch,' where Jason McCoy and Nelson Beaulieu, two academic buddies, delve into real-world topics from the comfort of your living room. In this episode, they tackle the pressing question on every parent's mind: 'Am I Being Too Hard On My Kids?'

    Join them for an enlightening 80+ minutes as they explore the nuances of parenting pressure, from deciphering the role of a 'soccer mom' to identifying signs of overbearing expectations. Delve into the potential pitfalls of academic and athletic rigor, and uncover the possible negative consequences of pushing children too far. Tune in for expert insights, thought-provoking discussions, and practical advice to navigate the delicate balance of nurturing and challenging our next generation.

    Don't miss out on this engaging episode that promises to shed light on one of the most important dilemmas facing modern parents. Follow and join the conversation!"

    #neverenough #parentalpressure #acheivementpressure #livingvicariously #sportsparents #soccermom #soccerdad #tigermom #psychology #JasonMcCoy #professormccoy #putemonthecouch